Layer 3 VPN (L3VPN)

Definition - What does Layer 3 VPN (L3VPN) mean?

Layer 3 VPN (L3VPN) is a type of VPN mode that is built and delivered on OSI layer 3 networking technologies. The entire communication from the core VPN infrastructure is forwarded using layer 3 virtual routing and forwarding techniques.

It is built using a combination of IP- and MPLS-based networking technologies. It is generally used to send data on back-end VPN infrastructures, such as for VPN connections between data centers or back offices.